Shillong, Nov 5: The three-day ‘Rising Sun Water Fest-2022’ culminated on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony at Umiam Lake, Meghalaya, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Northeastern region.

Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, graced the event as the Chief Guest and felicitated the participants and clubs for their outstanding performances. He also addressed the august gathering and congratulated the organizing committee, participating teams and Lieutenant General RP Kalita, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command for the entire effort and making the event a grand success.

The closing ceremony saw cultural performance by Assamese star Rupali Kashya. Colourful cultural songs and dance performances by Khasi Drummers showcased the rich cultural heritage of Northeast.

The water sports and cultural extravaganza held from November 3-5 was the first of its kind in the Northeast and aimed at encouraging the sports loving youth to take up water sports like Rowing and Sailing. It also aimed at promoting tourism in the North East.

A large number of viewers, locals as well as outstation visitors, witnessed the event. 22 clubs from across the country took part in the event. DGAR team won the Rowing Trophy, securing one gold and one silver medal. The Yachting Club of Hyderabad won the Sailing Trophy by securing three gold medals, two silver medals and one bronze medal.

Lieutenant General RP Kalita, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Air Marshal SP Dharkar, AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command and many dignitaries graced the occasion.

The Rising Sun Water Fest was an initiative of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command with the governments of Assam and Meghalaya. Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma set the ball rolling by opening the maiden regatta on November 3, an occasion marked by colorful festivities and cultural performances by renowned artists.